Troy welcomes go-ahead for Asian trade hub in Westmeath

Posted on 01/05/12 by Robert Troy


Fianna Fáil TD Robert Troy has welcomed the go-ahead for a major Euro Chinese Trading Hub at Creggan, Co. Westmeath.

Commenting on the decision of An Bord Pleanála Deputy Troy said: “This multi-million euro project is extremely important for Westmeath and the entire region. This is an extremely significant investment in Ireland and will create thousands of jobs in the years ahead.

“A project on this scale will be of huge benefit and will showcase the region and the country to new markets and companies in Europe and Asia. The previous Government supported the initiative shown by those behind the project and was very keen to see this brought to fruition.

“Ireland can play a significant role in the years ahead in promoting trade between China and Europe and I am delighted that the midlands is going to have a major role to play in that. I have been strongly supportive of this project as a member of Westmeath County Council and I look forward to construction getting underway as soon as possible.

“I note the conditions attached to today’s decision from An Bord Pleanála and there will significant benefits for the area. They include improvements to the R446-Dublin Road and Athlone Business Park junction and the completion of the N6 Athlone Relief Road Junction Upgrade Phase 2 for the N61/R916 Garrycastle Interchange to avoid traffic congestion.

“An Bord Pleanála has also stipulated that the developer must provide a frequent coach bus service to Dublin Airport for visitors, a local bus service serving Athlone Town which will be of benefit to commuting employees and customers, Cycleways and the installation of public lighting along pedestrian routes through open spaces.

“This development is extremely important for Westmeath and the midlands. What will be very welcome to residents is the decision of An Bord Pleanála that service cables associated with the development must be laid underground along with all existing over ground cables moving underground.”

Deputy Troy concluded: “I want to commend the enormous effort on the part of the promoters, officials in Westmeath County Council and all those who have worked to get the project to this stage.”